Visiting Angels Helps Keep Non-Driving Seniors Active and On the Road with Transportation Resources in Plano, TX and Nearby Cities

At some point or another during the aging process, many seniors will have to give up their driving privileges. Seniors often make this decision due to age-related visual impairments, physical problems, or cognitive conditions, but even when this is a voluntary decision, seniors can feel like they have lost control of their lives. Having access to a car is seen as a link to the rest of the world and losing that can feel isolating. Busy families often struggle to provide for their elderly loved one’s transportation needs, making it difficult for seniors to attend their doctor’s appointments or see friends.

When your loved one hands in their car keys, it does not mean they have to be stuck at home. With home care from Visiting Angels of Plano, our experienced caregivers offer transportation assistance so that your loved one can remain independent.

When Seniors in Plano, Murphy, Parker, or Surrounding Areas Lose Their Cars, They Do Not Have to Lose Their Freedom – Visiting Angels Is Here to Help

It is important for people of all ages to regularly go outside and leave the house. Staying home for extended periods of time is not healthy mentally or physically and can cause depression or feelings of isolation. However, there are many transportation services that can help your loved one get around.

Transportation services are crucial for seniors to get to medical appointments on time among other things. Not having access to transportation is the third-most common barrier seniors face when trying to access health services, according to the American Hospital Association.

Transportation Options for Seniors

When it is time for your loved one to stop driving, it is important that they are aware of other alternatives.

Here are a few options you can consider:

Public Transportation - Most urban areas offer public transportation services such as trains or busses that come and go at regular hours. Many public transportation services offer discounts or free fares for the elderly.
Paratransit - Seniors with mobility issues can use paratransit services. With paratransit services, your loved one can be picked up from home in minibuses or vans that can accommodate wheelchairs. These services must be scheduled in advance so that the service area can be verified. Register for Paratransit services online.
On-Demand Ridesharing Services - Uber and Lyft are ridesharing services that can be scheduled through a phone application. Payments are taken through the app and cost is based on trip time and the distance of the destination. For seniors who have difficulty with technology, rides can be scheduled by a family member or a caregiver.
Uber Assist can help seniors who have special needs such as wheelchair, walker, or scooter accommodations. Uber Health is another option that can help seniors get to appointments by allowing healthcare professionals to pay for non-emergency medical rides. Lyft Concierge is similar as it allows healthcare organizations to provide seniors with service.
Volunteer Organizations and Community Resources - Many churches, nonprofit organizations, and community centers offer free driving programs for seniors. Look for these resources in your community by searching with Eldercare.
Medicaid Non-Emergency Medical Transportation - If your loved one qualifies for Medicaid, they may be able to access transportation to and from doctor’s appointments. This is for seniors who do not have other means of transportation.

Our Caregivers Also Provide Transportation

With Visiting Angels of Plano, your loved one can get the care they need in their own homes. Our experienced and compassionate caregivers can also provide reliable transportation for your loved one regardless of weather or schedules. When your loved one has a trusted caregiver from Visiting Angels of Plano, families do not have to worry about arranging transportation.

Of course, our caregivers provide more than just care and transportation. They offer meaningful companionship and conversation as well as assistance with daily tasks that are troublesome for your loved one. Caregivers will also stay with your loved one during doctor’s appointments or wherever they are going for the day. Our caregivers at Visiting Angels of Plano can be scheduled as needed for a few hours a day or 24/7.

Learn More Today

If you have a loved one who is no longer able to drive, contact Visiting Angels of Plano today at 972-846-8417 and learn more about how our home care services can help your loved one.